Why do I get mood swings after having a baby?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz answered:Up to 50 percent of all women suffer some kind of blues after giving birth. They may feel anxious, have crying spells, lose their appetite, or have trouble sleeping. The trick is to figure out how serious your mood changes are - and what you need to do about them. Above all, it's important to note that feeling a little off your game is totally normal - and even expected. But you - and your partner - need to be aware of the signs and clues to when the baby blues turn a deeper, darker shade.
The above symptoms last up to about two weeks after birth. They usually don't require treatment, and often finding a sympathetic ear or someone to care for the baby at night so you can get some rest can be enough to get you over the hump.
Find out more about this book: YOU: Having a Baby: The Owner's Manual to a Happy and Healthy Pregnancy
Up to 50 percent of all women suffer some kind of blues after giving birth. They may feel anxious, have crying spells, lose their appetite, or have trouble sleeping. The trick is to figure out how serious your mood changes are - and what you need to... More -
Dr. Polly Dunn answered:In the days and weeks following childbirth, women are especially prone to mood swings, often known as the baby blues. The baby blues usually subside in about a month, but can include symptoms like tearfulness, difficulty sleeping, irritability, anxiety, and feeling overwhelmed by your increased responsibilities. You will probably continue to feel joy and happiness about the birth of your child, but feelings of sadness creep in as well.For the majority of women, baby blues go away on their own after a few weeks. However, for about 10-20% of women these symptoms will develop into the more serious, postpartum depression. Unlike the baby blues, the symptoms of postpartum depression are more severe and longer lasting and may interfere with your ability to take care of your new baby. Without help, mothers can be left feeling depressed, down, and hopeless for months after the birth of their child. A small percentage of women with postpartum depression may even experience thoughts of harming themselves or their baby.
If you’re a new mom struggling with feelings of depression, there are number of things you can do to help yourself begin to feel better. First, try to spend some time with other adults who care about you. Talk with your spouse, friends, and family about how they can help you with the baby and don’t be afraid to tell them about your feelings. Next, make sure to get as much rest as possible. Try to nap during the day when your baby does so that you can make up for those guaranteed sleepless nights.
Just as you make a routine out of bathing, dressing, and feeding your baby, make sure that you give yourself a normal routine of showering, getting dressed, and eating at regular intervals. Getting out of the house with your baby is also a good way to improve your mood. You can go for a walk, visit a friend, or even venture out to the store for a much needed change of scenery.
Last but not least, talk to your doctor about your symptoms of depression. Your obstetrician is available to answer your questions and talk with you about treatment options. There are medications available to treat postpartum depression, many of which are approved for use while breastfeeding. In addition, individual therapy provided by a licensed psychologist or licensed professional counselor is an effective treatment for postpartum depression, especially when combined with medication.
In the days and weeks following childbirth, women are especially prone to mood swings, often known as the baby blues. The baby blues usually subside in about a month, but can include symptoms like tearfulness, difficulty sleeping,... More
